Sometimes getting people on board with a change is harder than implementing the change itself. Next time your team balks at something new, do the following:
- Encourage openness. Create an environment where people feel free to express their thoughts and feelings about the change. Actively ask employees about their concerns.
- Bring people together. Once you understand their hesitations, bring people together to discuss the perceived problems. If people feel that they’ve been heard, they are more likely to support the final decision.
- Be direct. Address all concerns head-on and provide as much information as possible.
Adapted from the Harvard ManageMentor Online Module: Change Management.
